On Wednesday 13 December alumni, friends and guests attended the Christmas edition of 'Bringing Birmingham to You' at the Sugar Loaf Bar downstairs in Bodega Cantina in central Birmingham.

In this festive edition, attendees had an opportunity to listen to some of Birmingham's leading academics give a short, informal talk on their particular area of expertise.

Our inventive adacemics on the night put a festive twist on their research. They were:

Professor Felix Schmid, Professor in Civil Engineering, "Why do the Railways Close at Christmas?" which gave us a much deeper understanding of the complex infrastructure of railways that most commuters take completely for granted.

Dr Melrose Stewart, Lecturer in Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, "Joy and Sad Tidings" where Dr Stewart showed us the fantastic results of her research into intergenerational activities, and how having fun interactions with small children lets older people live longer, healthier and happier lives. Dr Stewart was recently involved in the hit Channel 4 show 'Old People's Home for Four Year Olds'.

Professor Jeremy Pritchard, Professor of Life Sciences Education, "Christmas Trees and Climate Change" where we learned about how well coniferous evergreen trees have adapted to cope with environmental changes and hardships, and some top tips about keeping your Christmas tree alive!

The evening was a fun and festive look at some of the influential and important research undertaken at the University of Birmingham. Attendees asked questions along they way, whilst enjoying drinks and delicious South American style street food.

'Bringing Birmingham to You' is a new series of events from the Alumni Office, bringing Birmingham academics to our alumni community. No prior knowledge of the subject matter is necessary. Academics will discuss and share their latest research and findings in the informal atmosphere outside of the usual lecture theatres, giving our alumni community a chance to meet some of the people helping lead the way in science and arts.